Among Campania's major tourism successes in 2024, the "LaccOnArt" project stands out. Funded by the Campania Region, it aims to promote and consolidate the image of Ischia's tourism system, particularly Lacco Ameno. The initiative has strengthened the island's tourism and cultural promotion policy, significantly impacting the tourism sector.
The initiative, strongly supported by the municipal administration led by Mayor Giacomo Pascale and Deputy Mayor Carla Tufano, saw the enthusiastic participation of visitors. Archaeologist Mariangela Catuogno, the beating heart of the project, guided participants to discover the main sites of artistic, cultural, architectural, landscape and archaeological interest. The visits were facilitated by the use of electric shuttles provided by the Region, which made the tour ecological and accessible.
"Following the severe crisis in the tourism sector caused by the 2017 earthquake, the COVID-19 health emergency, and the recent floods and landslides of 2022, this initiative was crucial in highlighting our beauty," said Mayor Giacomo Pascale. "Our goal was to foster quality tourism, and we achieved that. I thank the Campania Region, particularly Councilor Casucci and Dr. Rosanna Romano, for their significant support."
Deputy Mayor Carla Tufano emphasized the importance of enhancing the area: "We have a region rich in architectural, landscape, and cultural beauty that needs to be enhanced. We have invested in a green project that connects sites of cultural interest with the surrounding areas, a service that will benefit our community for the long term."
Archaeologist Mariangela Catuogno explained: "Lacco Ameno is the first Greek settlement in the West, and the local topography has allowed us to create itineraries that showcase places of great historical interest. The public response has been impressive, underscoring the need for cultural projects like this."
The initiative covered the entire city perimeter, with particular attention to the Villa Arbusto complex and the Pithecusa Archaeological Museum, which houses priceless artifacts, including the famous Nestor's Cup. Although the project was limited in duration, it left the Lacco Ameno community with green and eco-sustainable electric shuttles, which can also be used by guests with disabilities.
Luke Anthony Pepper
